How to Scan a Document in Windows 11

Introduction:

Windows 11, the latest version of Microsoft’s operating system, introduces various new features and improvements. Among these is the capability to scan documents easily without the need for third-party software. In this article, we will walk you through the process of scanning a document using Windows 11.

Step 1: Connect your scanner

Before you can begin scanning, make sure your scanner is properly connected to your PC, either via USB or wirelessly, depending on the model. Consult your scanner’s user manual for specific connection instructions.

Step 2: Install scanner drivers (if necessary)

Windows 11 usually detects scanners automatically and installs the appropriate drivers, but you may need to install them manually in some cases. Visit your scanner manufacturer’s website for their most up-to-date drivers and follow their installation instructions.

Step 3: Open Scan App

Click on the Start button, then search for ‘Scan’ in the search bar that appears next to it. Click on the ‘Windows Scan’ app that appears in the search results. If you don’t have it installed already, you can download it from the Microsoft Store by clicking on ‘Get’ and following the installation prompts.

Step 4: Select your scanner

Once you have opened the Windows Scan app, make sure that your scanner is selected in the dropdown menu under ‘Scanner.’ If it isn’t listed there, check that it is correctly connected and its drivers are installed.

Step 5: Customize scanning settings

Select your desired file format for the scanned document from the ‘File type’ dropdown menu – JPEG, PNG, PDF, or TIFF. Choose between color or grayscale mode by selecting either ‘Color mode’ or ‘Grayscale mode,’ depending on your preference. You can also adjust resolution (DPI), format size (A4, letter), and orientation (portrait or landscape) based on your needs.

Step 6: Preview and scan

If your scanner supports preview functionality, click on the ‘Preview’ button to see a low-resolution preview of your document in the Windows Scan app. Adjust the scan area by moving or resizing the dotted-line selection box that appears around your document.
When you’re satisfied with your scanning settings, click on the ‘Scan’ button. The app will begin scanning and display a progress bar.

Step 7: View and save the scanned document

After the scan is completed, you can review the scanned document in the app and make any necessary adjustments. When you’re ready to save, click on the ‘Save File’ button. Choose a destination folder, enter a file name, and click on ‘Save.’

Conclusion:

Scanning documents in Windows 11 using the built-in Windows Scan app is convenient and straightforward. By following these simple steps, you can easily digitize physical documents without resorting to third-party software or subscription-based services. Happy scanning!

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